The Pirates had lost to Mazama twice this season, and it didn't help that their top rebounder and second-leading scorer, Baylee Toney, was not available due to a concussion suffered the previous Friday against Hidden Valley.

Phoenix hung tough the first half but the host Vikings broke things open after intermission to roll to a 55-21 Skyline Conference victory Friday.

The Pirates, who average 23 free throws per game, did not have an attempt from the foul line until the fourth quarter while Mazama feasted from the stripe — going a remarkable 21 of 23 for the game.

"Anything we took to the basket did not get called," said Kirkland, who got whistled for a technical foul in the final period. "We worked so hard but could not get a call."

Phoenix (12-5, 4-2 Sky) was paced by Kacey Hamilton, a junior forward, who scored a team-best nine points to go with nine rebounds, four steals and three blocks.

"We wanted to be patient and take the opportunities when we had them to go to the basket," said Kirkland. "We knew it would be physical."

"We didn't shoot well and it got into our heads a bit," said Kirkland. "Our girls, all six that were out there, worked the entire game. They dove for balls. It was a great effort, we just weren't rewarded for our hard work."